The last month has shown that in times of uncertainty, the 3D printing community easily bands together for the greater good. With innovative, easy-to-produce designs, additive companies have deployed thousands of face shields and prompted machine owners to create thousands more.
Besides showcasing a profound sense of community, the past month has highlighted the ideas that can be made possible by additive manufacturing. Our predictions for the quarter are along the same vein – 3D printing will continue to further innovation and creative thinking.
Keep on reading to learn about what’s occurred so far and what could come in the near future.
Prediction: New medical applications for 3D prints
From 3D printed prosthetics to biomechanically accurate 3D printed material on the Stratasys J750 Digital Anatomy Printer, applications for medical 3D printing have dramatically expanded throughout the past five years.
Stratasys’ Digital Anatomy Printer has allowed members of the medical community to imagine a future where they’re able to quickly print specific anatomies. The printer’s digital capabilities allow users to create microstructures which look, feel, and function like actual human tissue for true haptic feedback. The truly printer paves the road for cadaver replacement.
Besides new applications of the Digital Anatomy Printer, innovative minds are determining new applications for 3D prints. The recent outbreak of COVID-19 prompted many members of the additive community to do their part in stopping the spread of germs, via 3D printing.
Materialise created free-to-download files for a hands-free door opener. An Italian hospital is using a 3D printer to create valves for reanimation devices. Stratasys is currently scaling its efforts to print both re-usable and disposable protective face shields. The CoVent Challenge was created to prompt the additive community to develop and design a rapidly deployable mechanical ventilator.
It is incredible to see how many companies are innovating to stop the spread of coronavirus. Even after the spread of COVID-19 is reduced, our team expects to continue to see inspiring applications of medical 3D printing.
Prediction: Increase in full-color realism PolyJet 3D prints
Earlier in 2020, Stratasys announced the release of the J826. The printer offers the capabilities of the J850, on a smaller platform. The machine’s addition to the J8 Series has solidified it as the premier option for color 3D prints.
The J8 Series offers PANTONE Validation, allowing for users to translate digital colors into physical prints. This capability reduces prototyping costs and lead time. As a Purple Sales Engineer Gabe Suppes said in a recent interview, “The J8 Series is twice as fast as the Connex… one J826 can essentially function like two Connex3 Objet260 machines.” Plus, its ease of use allows for an incredibly wide array of applications.
From early stage prototypes to high fidelity models, Stratasys PolyJet 3D printers are the perfect design solution. Our team fully expects to see a wide array of incredible prints throughout Q2.
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